Spencer R.
Yelp
Jasmine Deli is gold. Pure gold. A neighborhood staple with hole-in-the-wall style and better yet, hole-in-the-wall prices, J-Del is where it's at. The original member of the Jasmine family, now including Jasmine 26 and Cafe Kem, Jasmine Deli has always been my favorite place to grab a quick bite.
The unassuming appearance of Jasmine Deli should not turn you away from it, nor should its sometimes questionable choice of music. The food is excellent, the service is prompt and friendly, and the prices are very reasonable.
But really, really, it's all about the food. The Bánh Mì is AWESOME, and the Bánh Mì Chay is better than any other Vietnamese restaurant on Eat Street. The Mock Duck sandwich is delicious, and the Curry Mock Duck sandwich is out of this world. Seriously. I know many meat-eaters who prefer the mock duck or curry mock duck sandwiches.
The fresh spring rolls are great, and along with the sandwiches, can be picked up from the deli counter in practically no time at all. The deli counter items make great choices for an impromptu picnic. If it's a beautiful day, grab someone you care about, 2 sandwiches and a pack of spring rolls, and find some nice grass on which to eat. J-Del would still be one of my favorite restaurants if they only had this deli counter.
However, there is a full menu, should you feel like staying (and I think you should!) Their noodle salads are excellent, and have won multiple "Best of the Twin Cities" awards. The pho is good, but not great. Tasty and huge, but not the star of the menu. Anything on the menu will be delicious, though. That's guaranteed.
As others have noted, Jasmine is Cash/Check only, but the prices are very reasonable, so you can get a good meal without carrying an overstuffed wallet.
For delicious Vietnamese food, look no further than Jasmine Deli. You won't regret it.